Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Monte Sereno, CA

Photo of Kambria Hooper Evans - Kambria Evans: EMDR & Brainspotting Intensives, MEd, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kambria Evans: EMDR & Brainspotting Intensives
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Monte Sereno, CA 95030
As an EMDR Consultant and Brainspotting Clinician, I offer evidence-based therapy for clients and training for therapists. As a former Director at Stanford Medical School, I offer internationally recognized expertise in how people learn and change from 20 years of training, research, and teaching at Vanderbilt and Stanford. As a relational trauma expert, I offer the ability to differentiate between the sound of your intuition guiding you and your traumas misleading you. My passion is utilizing the powerful benefits of EMDR & Brainspotting Intensives with clients who are ready to live without disturbing clinical symptoms.
As an EMDR Consultant and Brainspotting Clinician, I offer evidence-based therapy for clients and training for therapists. As a former Director at Stanford Medical School, I offer internationally recognized expertise in how people learn and change from 20 years of training, research, and teaching at Vanderbilt and Stanford. As a relational trauma expert, I offer the ability to differentiate between the sound of your intuition guiding you and your traumas misleading you. My passion is utilizing the powerful benefits of EMDR & Brainspotting Intensives with clients who are ready to live without disturbing clinical symptoms.
(408) 769-5739 View (408) 769-5739
Photo of Katie DiNapoli, LMFT, EMDR, BSP, ART, TIST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katie DiNapoli
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, BSP, ART, TIST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Monte Sereno, CA 95030
Not accepting new clients
Specializing in: children, family conflict, suicidality & self-harm, PTSD, complex & intergenerational trauma, dissociation, diagnoses of DID, OSDD, BPD, depression, bipolar depression, and anxiety.
Do you feel stuck and worried you may not be able to find help? Maybe you have a habit or behavior you want to stop but can't seem to make lasting progress. Perhaps you're unhappy, anxious, exhausted, or feel like you don't know if you will ever get better. By the time most folks seek therapy, they have been stressed or hurting for a long time. Finding someone you can work with, who gets you, is often a very difficult process. ◇I love working with toddlers, kids, couples, & families too! We can do nature walks or meet inside. Attuning to BIPOC experiences, and special focus on LGBTQIA+ community are important to my work & life.
Specializing in: children, family conflict, suicidality & self-harm, PTSD, complex & intergenerational trauma, dissociation, diagnoses of DID, OSDD, BPD, depression, bipolar depression, and anxiety.
Do you feel stuck and worried you may not be able to find help? Maybe you have a habit or behavior you want to stop but can't seem to make lasting progress. Perhaps you're unhappy, anxious, exhausted, or feel like you don't know if you will ever get better. By the time most folks seek therapy, they have been stressed or hurting for a long time. Finding someone you can work with, who gets you, is often a very difficult process. ◇I love working with toddlers, kids, couples, & families too! We can do nature walks or meet inside. Attuning to BIPOC experiences, and special focus on LGBTQIA+ community are important to my work & life.
(408) 609-3870 View (408) 609-3870
Photo of Samantha Greenlee, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Samantha Greenlee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Monte Sereno, CA 95030
There are times in life when we struggle with ourselves, our relationships, or our futures. What we do with the struggle is what will determine our growth. If you've found yourself in a period of uncertainty, you don't have to do this alone. Live your best life.
There are times in life when we struggle with ourselves, our relationships, or our futures. What we do with the struggle is what will determine our growth. If you've found yourself in a period of uncertainty, you don't have to do this alone. Live your best life.
(408) 692-2266 View (408) 692-2266
Photo of Johnny Brown - Phoenix Counseling, MSc, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Phoenix Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSc, LMFT
Verified Verified
Monte Sereno, CA 95030
Does it seem like your relationship is out of balance? All you and your partner do, it seems like, is fight? Where there was a feeling of peace and harmony, now just feels like a heavy fog of uncertainty. Is there an issue of infidelity and trust has eroded. At one point you and your partner could communicate, but now you struggle to get your message across. Come in and let's talk.
Does it seem like your relationship is out of balance? All you and your partner do, it seems like, is fight? Where there was a feeling of peace and harmony, now just feels like a heavy fog of uncertainty. Is there an issue of infidelity and trust has eroded. At one point you and your partner could communicate, but now you struggle to get your message across. Come in and let's talk.
(408) 869-5958 View (408) 869-5958

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Aaron Michael Desuacido, PsyD, Psychological Associate
Aaron Michael Desuacido
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Gatos, CA 95030
Greetings! I am so glad you are here. My name is Dr. Aaron Desuacido and I am passionate about helping people realize their true value. I have worked with people from many different backgrounds, age groups, and demographics but I have extensive experience working with trauma survivors and transitional age youth, which includes individuals from adolescence to early adulthood.
Greetings! I am so glad you are here. My name is Dr. Aaron Desuacido and I am passionate about helping people realize their true value. I have worked with people from many different backgrounds, age groups, and demographics but I have extensive experience working with trauma survivors and transitional age youth, which includes individuals from adolescence to early adulthood.
(831) 604-2237 View (831) 604-2237
Photo of Susan B Holcomb, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan B Holcomb
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Gatos, CA 95032
I work with adults and couples with relationship issues that shift in response to individual growth, aging, trauma, and life transitions.
Therapy is a chance to explore your feelings and thoughts, to gain a better understanding of yourself, and to make positive changes that will allow you to experience life more fully. I will provide a safe environment for your exploration, and draw on my knowledge of theory and technique to help you access untapped or forgotten resources. I believe that through a respectful therapeutic relationship you will be able to explore beliefs that limit your life, and ultimately you will be able to choose, with awareness, how you want to be in the world.
I work with adults and couples with relationship issues that shift in response to individual growth, aging, trauma, and life transitions.
Therapy is a chance to explore your feelings and thoughts, to gain a better understanding of yourself, and to make positive changes that will allow you to experience life more fully. I will provide a safe environment for your exploration, and draw on my knowledge of theory and technique to help you access untapped or forgotten resources. I believe that through a respectful therapeutic relationship you will be able to explore beliefs that limit your life, and ultimately you will be able to choose, with awareness, how you want to be in the world.
(408) 622-9255 View (408) 622-9255
Photo of Traci A. Smith, MA, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Traci A. Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Gatos, CA 95030  (Online Only)
I specialize in using this relationship and evidence-based practices to provide strength-based, trauma-informed therapy to transitional age youth (ages 15-25) and adults to support them with emotional regulation, self-exploration, self-acceptance, independence, and life transitions.
I’m so glad you’re here. I imagine it wasn’t easy to consider asking for support, particularly in a world where many isms, biases, and stigma exist. This is a sign of strength and desire for growth, and I’d be honored to work with you. I believe that change can best be achieved within a nurturing, accepting, and respectfully challenging environment. That's why I offer a Person-Centered approach to building a therapeutic relationship with you that is built on authenticity and providing you with the empathy, nonjudgment, and unconditional positive regard that enables you to achieve the change and goals you desire.
I specialize in using this relationship and evidence-based practices to provide strength-based, trauma-informed therapy to transitional age youth (ages 15-25) and adults to support them with emotional regulation, self-exploration, self-acceptance, independence, and life transitions.
I’m so glad you’re here. I imagine it wasn’t easy to consider asking for support, particularly in a world where many isms, biases, and stigma exist. This is a sign of strength and desire for growth, and I’d be honored to work with you. I believe that change can best be achieved within a nurturing, accepting, and respectfully challenging environment. That's why I offer a Person-Centered approach to building a therapeutic relationship with you that is built on authenticity and providing you with the empathy, nonjudgment, and unconditional positive regard that enables you to achieve the change and goals you desire.
(669) 242-5880 View (669) 242-5880
Photo of Rachel Rogers Safadi - Bluebird Marriage and Family Therapy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bluebird Marriage and Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Gatos, CA 95030
I am formally trained in EMDR and Brainspotting, which are therapies to help you overcome trauma or any limiting core beliefs about oneself.
Is there conflict in your home or in your relationships? Do you suffer from feelings of anxiety or depression? I am a holistic psychotherapist who considers the whole person — body, mind, spirit, and emotions — in order to achieve growth and wellness. I integrate a variety of effective psychotherapy methods tailored to meet your individual needs, which will help you to increase awareness and actively challenge any roadblocks that may be getting in the way of your healing. I will help you discover your natural strengths and resources and improve your relationship with yourself and others.
I am formally trained in EMDR and Brainspotting, which are therapies to help you overcome trauma or any limiting core beliefs about oneself.
Is there conflict in your home or in your relationships? Do you suffer from feelings of anxiety or depression? I am a holistic psychotherapist who considers the whole person — body, mind, spirit, and emotions — in order to achieve growth and wellness. I integrate a variety of effective psychotherapy methods tailored to meet your individual needs, which will help you to increase awareness and actively challenge any roadblocks that may be getting in the way of your healing. I will help you discover your natural strengths and resources and improve your relationship with yourself and others.
(408) 418-2475 View (408) 418-2475
Photo of Linnea Butler, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Linnea Butler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Gatos, CA 95030
I specialize in treating PTSD and complex trauma, and I offer spiritual guidance also.
On the outside you put on a good show for the world. Yet on the inside, you feel alone and broken. Never good enough. You suffer in agonizing silence, and you're terrified of the moment when everyone figures out you are a fraud. These feelings are very old and familiar because they come from your childhood experiences. And while you can't change the past, you CAN change your experience of the present. You can heal from old wounds. I know because I've walked that road and I know there is another side. In addition to traditional therapy I also offer ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) which can assist in your healing journey.
I specialize in treating PTSD and complex trauma, and I offer spiritual guidance also.
On the outside you put on a good show for the world. Yet on the inside, you feel alone and broken. Never good enough. You suffer in agonizing silence, and you're terrified of the moment when everyone figures out you are a fraud. These feelings are very old and familiar because they come from your childhood experiences. And while you can't change the past, you CAN change your experience of the present. You can heal from old wounds. I know because I've walked that road and I know there is another side. In addition to traditional therapy I also offer ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) which can assist in your healing journey.
(408) 767-6571 View (408) 767-6571
Photo of Jo Stein, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jo Stein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Gatos, CA 95030
Not accepting new clients
When you are under stress, you can loose sight of your power to change your life. Collaboratively we work together to discover what feeds your intense feelings, relationship conflict, or what hinders your healing loss or trauma. As these discoveries unfold, I help you develop hands on tools to calm and release overwhelming emotions, correct self-limiting beliefs, and repair relationships with yourself and others.
When you are under stress, you can loose sight of your power to change your life. Collaboratively we work together to discover what feeds your intense feelings, relationship conflict, or what hinders your healing loss or trauma. As these discoveries unfold, I help you develop hands on tools to calm and release overwhelming emotions, correct self-limiting beliefs, and repair relationships with yourself and others.
(408) 676-9959 View (408) 676-9959
Photo of Angelique Bagley, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Angelique Bagley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Gatos, CA 95030
Are you experiencing a difficult time in your or your children's life? Are you ready to face a problem that has been nagging at you for a while? I am here to help. I understand it can be difficult to reach out for help. Taking the first step is never easy. Together we will formulate a plan to best handle whatever issue is troubling you. I have extensive experience working with children and teens. My specialties include child and teen trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, and grief. I also enjoy working with adults and families around issues such as parenting, transitions, grief, and depression issues.
Are you experiencing a difficult time in your or your children's life? Are you ready to face a problem that has been nagging at you for a while? I am here to help. I understand it can be difficult to reach out for help. Taking the first step is never easy. Together we will formulate a plan to best handle whatever issue is troubling you. I have extensive experience working with children and teens. My specialties include child and teen trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, and grief. I also enjoy working with adults and families around issues such as parenting, transitions, grief, and depression issues.
(408) 837-7810 View (408) 837-7810
Photo of Denise Henderson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Denise Henderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Gatos, CA 95030
I am EMDR trained and combine trauma informed healing through process work that may include, guided meditation, parts work, story telling, sandtray, internal strength work and empathic connection.
I have been working with survivors of trauma for 20 years, Trauma steals our life away and causes us to relive the pain of the past and fear the future. I want to walk with you through the pain to a place of freedom and choice. It takes courage to face our pain, the journey is often long and may feel hopeless. I invite you to try and trust one more time and see if we can find that place of peace and healing. You deserve the chance for something different, something for you.
I am EMDR trained and combine trauma informed healing through process work that may include, guided meditation, parts work, story telling, sandtray, internal strength work and empathic connection.
I have been working with survivors of trauma for 20 years, Trauma steals our life away and causes us to relive the pain of the past and fear the future. I want to walk with you through the pain to a place of freedom and choice. It takes courage to face our pain, the journey is often long and may feel hopeless. I invite you to try and trust one more time and see if we can find that place of peace and healing. You deserve the chance for something different, something for you.
(408) 351-7736 View (408) 351-7736
Photo of Christine Cain, MA, LMFT, ABD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christine Cain
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ABD
Verified Verified
Los Gatos, CA 95032
Waitlist for new clients
A in psychotherapy, I have a graduate certification in trauma treatment.
Ease, change and joy are accessible. I know you can emerge from distress. I have seen radical growth-- again and again. My therapeutic approach is designed for each person's individual internal world. I design each session using a variety of active and engaged interventions, like EMDR, IFS, and expressive arts. We work to uncover the hurt parts that have taken over your life. The “stuck-ness” seems to dissipate. In an atmosphere of love and total acceptance, I use proven interventions to bring awareness and internal movement.
A in psychotherapy, I have a graduate certification in trauma treatment.
Ease, change and joy are accessible. I know you can emerge from distress. I have seen radical growth-- again and again. My therapeutic approach is designed for each person's individual internal world. I design each session using a variety of active and engaged interventions, like EMDR, IFS, and expressive arts. We work to uncover the hurt parts that have taken over your life. The “stuck-ness” seems to dissipate. In an atmosphere of love and total acceptance, I use proven interventions to bring awareness and internal movement.
(408) 351-0786 View (408) 351-0786
Photo of Dr. Debbie Francis, PsyD, MA, BSR, Psychologist
Dr. Debbie Francis
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, BSR
Verified Verified
Los Gatos, CA 95032
*CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW MEDICARE PATIENTS* I work with adults struggling with a wide range of challenges including loss of relationships, life transitions, and personal problems like anxiety, depression, addiction, or trauma. Life can be difficult but you don't have to figure it out all alone. I can help you. Together, we'll create a safe space where you'll gain insight and perspective into thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are no longer working for you. With these understandings, you'll be able to make better choices and positive life changes. By working through your pain, you'll gain a self-awareness you didn't have before.
*CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW MEDICARE PATIENTS* I work with adults struggling with a wide range of challenges including loss of relationships, life transitions, and personal problems like anxiety, depression, addiction, or trauma. Life can be difficult but you don't have to figure it out all alone. I can help you. Together, we'll create a safe space where you'll gain insight and perspective into thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are no longer working for you. With these understandings, you'll be able to make better choices and positive life changes. By working through your pain, you'll gain a self-awareness you didn't have before.
(408) 207-4564 View (408) 207-4564
Photo of Angela Li - Angela Li: Brainspotting Anxiety Trauma Therapist, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Angela Li: Brainspotting Anxiety Trauma Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Gatos, CA 95030
Are trauma, anxiety and insecurity controlling your life, preventing you from pursuing your dreams and living life to the fullest? Do you relive the past as if it were happening right now? Your head knows better, but it fails to convince your heart otherwise. As horrible as those experiences were in the past, they continue to zap away your joy and confidence today. You might even avoid situations that trigger the feelings. Are there any lost part of you that you'd like to return to? Do others believe in your competence more than you believe in yourself? What would it be like if life was driven by passion and joy, not fear or shame?
Are trauma, anxiety and insecurity controlling your life, preventing you from pursuing your dreams and living life to the fullest? Do you relive the past as if it were happening right now? Your head knows better, but it fails to convince your heart otherwise. As horrible as those experiences were in the past, they continue to zap away your joy and confidence today. You might even avoid situations that trigger the feelings. Are there any lost part of you that you'd like to return to? Do others believe in your competence more than you believe in yourself? What would it be like if life was driven by passion and joy, not fear or shame?
(669) 232-8177 View (669) 232-8177
Photo of Charese Allen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Charese Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Gatos, CA 95030
I believe the purpose of therapy is to create a safe and validating environment where people can focus on creating a "life worth living". I help facilitate this journey by focusing on both acceptance and change in a warm, interactive and thoughtful fashion. If you are someone who is struggling to manage your emotions and behaviors because of anxiety, depression, or trauma we can work together to define the life you want and overcome the obstacles to it.
I believe the purpose of therapy is to create a safe and validating environment where people can focus on creating a "life worth living". I help facilitate this journey by focusing on both acceptance and change in a warm, interactive and thoughtful fashion. If you are someone who is struggling to manage your emotions and behaviors because of anxiety, depression, or trauma we can work together to define the life you want and overcome the obstacles to it.
(510) 876-4191 View (510) 876-4191
Photo of Julie Herman, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julie Herman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Los Gatos, CA 95030
If you are experiencing anxiety or depression, struggling with issues related to chemical dependency or chronic illness, hoping to heal from the trauma of past abuse, interested in creating healthier relationships, or simply wanting to work on your own personal growth, I am here to help. In my general psychotherapy practice, I have extensive experience helping adults, couples, and teens grapple with the many complexities of being human.
If you are experiencing anxiety or depression, struggling with issues related to chemical dependency or chronic illness, hoping to heal from the trauma of past abuse, interested in creating healthier relationships, or simply wanting to work on your own personal growth, I am here to help. In my general psychotherapy practice, I have extensive experience helping adults, couples, and teens grapple with the many complexities of being human.
(408) 805-3175 View (408) 805-3175
Photo of Nicole Symcox: Emdr And Brainspotting For Kids And Teens, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Symcox: Emdr And Brainspotting For Kids And Teens
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Gatos, CA 95032  (Online Only)
I am passionate about helping people heal from their past so they can build a better future. I am an EMDR Consultant and Brainspotting practitioner. I am IFS informed and trained in expressive arts therapy. I integrate these modalities into our work together as appropriate. I have a passion for helping families and kids thrive. I specialize in anxiety, trauma and ADHD and love working with neurodiverse individuals. I offer parent-child EMDR which can be extremely effective in repairing the parent-child bond and connection. It’s my joy to see kids and their parents thrive together. Visit nicolesymcox.com for more info.
I am passionate about helping people heal from their past so they can build a better future. I am an EMDR Consultant and Brainspotting practitioner. I am IFS informed and trained in expressive arts therapy. I integrate these modalities into our work together as appropriate. I have a passion for helping families and kids thrive. I specialize in anxiety, trauma and ADHD and love working with neurodiverse individuals. I offer parent-child EMDR which can be extremely effective in repairing the parent-child bond and connection. It’s my joy to see kids and their parents thrive together. Visit nicolesymcox.com for more info.
(408) 214-6894 View (408) 214-6894
Photo of Lisa M. Ayala, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa M. Ayala
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Gatos, CA 95030
I have many years of experience in working with clients who have experienced trauma in their lives and who have anxiety, grief and/or stress-related issues.
NOT ACCEPTING CLIENTS AT THIS TIME. I am trained in EMDR and in the process of becoming certified. EMDR is an amazing tool to help heal the effects of trauma and complicated grief. I have an open minded and open-hearted spiritual approach. I am experienced in helping people who are experiencing loss/ grief, PTSD and anxiety/mood disorders. Life can be difficult, unpredictable and even tragic at times. Are you ready to develop the tools to cope with difficult emotions and heal?
I have many years of experience in working with clients who have experienced trauma in their lives and who have anxiety, grief and/or stress-related issues.
NOT ACCEPTING CLIENTS AT THIS TIME. I am trained in EMDR and in the process of becoming certified. EMDR is an amazing tool to help heal the effects of trauma and complicated grief. I have an open minded and open-hearted spiritual approach. I am experienced in helping people who are experiencing loss/ grief, PTSD and anxiety/mood disorders. Life can be difficult, unpredictable and even tragic at times. Are you ready to develop the tools to cope with difficult emotions and heal?
(408) 583-5794 View (408) 583-5794
Photo of Cynthia Haartman - Cynthia Haartman: Psychotherapy, Sex Therapy, EMDR, MA, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cynthia Haartman: Psychotherapy, Sex Therapy, EMDR
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Los Gatos, CA 95032  (Online Only)
I am a Certified Sex Therapist, and also Certified in EMDR Therapy. My primary focus includes: intimacy and sexuality concerns, pelvic pain, fear and anxiety around intimacy, stress, trauma, anxiety, self worth, guilt and shame, neurodivergence/ADHD, chronic pain and chronic illness, as well as medical trauma, and manifestation of stress physically in the body. I am kink affirming and knowledgable, LGBTQ+/sexual and gender minority inclusive, and a sex positive provider.
I am a Certified Sex Therapist, and also Certified in EMDR Therapy. My primary focus includes: intimacy and sexuality concerns, pelvic pain, fear and anxiety around intimacy, stress, trauma, anxiety, self worth, guilt and shame, neurodivergence/ADHD, chronic pain and chronic illness, as well as medical trauma, and manifestation of stress physically in the body. I am kink affirming and knowledgable, LGBTQ+/sexual and gender minority inclusive, and a sex positive provider.
(408) 478-3890 View (408) 478-3890

See more therapy options for Monte Sereno

Trauma and PTSD Therapists

When should I seek treatment for trauma?

Not everyone who undergoes trauma needs therapy to heal, but many do. If, after experiencing a traumatic event, you find yourself struggling with symptoms such as nightmares, dissociation, irritability, or emotional numbness—especially if these symptoms last more than a month and are severe enough to interfere with your daily functioning—you may benefit from seeking out therapy with a trauma-informed provider.

How long does trauma therapy take?

Different types of therapy for trauma unfold on different timelines. Prolonged exposure therapy and cognitive processing therapy, for example, each take about three months, while trauma-informed CBT may last anywhere from 8 to 25 sessions. Other approaches, especially those that are less structured or that incorporate elements from multiple modalities, may be more open-ended, though many patients report feeling better within the first few months of treatment.

What happens if trauma is left untreated?

Unaddressed trauma can have serious—even devastating—effects on relationships, career, and day-to-day functioning. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can lead people to distrust or lash out at others, making it difficult to maintain intimate relationships; it can also trigger symptoms such as flashbacks or hyperreactivity that can interfere with a person’s ability to function effectively, personally and/or professionally. Some sufferers turn to drugs to find relief. Symptoms may lessen on their own with time, but there is no guarantee that PTSD will resolve on its own.

Can PTSD come back after treatment?

It is possible for PTSD symptoms to recur months or years after successful treatment. This is because, like most mental health disorders, it is not possible to “cure” PTSD, and stressful life events may cause symptoms to recur in even the most resilient individuals. There is no shame in re-experiencing PTSD symptoms nor in returning to therapy when such relapses occur; indeed, many forms of trauma therapy explicitly encourage periodic “maintenance sessions” to reinforce coping skills and ensure that symptoms stay manageable.